The Gift of Shabbos

Torah Thoughts on Sukkos-Simchas Torah-Bereshis by Rabbi Aaron Leibtag, Principal, FYHS

A few hours after Creation, Adam and Chava are banished from Gan Eden, and later in the parashah, we see Kayin punished for eternity for the murder of his brother Hevel. Midrash Rabbah (22) presents a fascinating dialogue between the two, each having faced significant suffering. When Adam inquires about Kayin’s judgment, Kayin responds that he has engaged in teshuvah. Adam is taken aback by this revelation, exclaiming: "Such is the power of teshuvah, and I didn’t know it!" The Midrash concludes with Adam composing Perek 92 of Tehillim, titled "מִזְמוֹר שִׁיר לְיוֹם הַשַׁבָּת".

The Nesivos Shalom provides a profound insight that deepens our understanding of both teshuvah and the beauty of Shabbos. Adam’s shock stems from his perception of how the world operates. When he sinned, he believed it was the end, with no possibility for redemption. However, in his conversation with Kayin, he finds inspiration. Kayin, condemned to wander as a nomad – נָע וָנָד בָּאָרֶץ – expresses his fear of losing his grounding. He tells Hashem that he cannot survive without something to anchor him. In response, the Torah tells us that Hashem granted Kayin an "אוֹת", often interpreted as a physical sign. However, the Nesivos Shalom explains that this "אוֹת" symbolizes the gift of Shabbos. Every week, Shabbos offers Kayin the opportunity to reconnect and find stability. While he may wander throughout the week, on Shabbos he can feel anchored and secure, allowing him to endure his punishment. This understanding helps us understand why Adam specifically chooses to express his insights through "מִזְמוֹר שִׁיר לְיוֹם הַשַׁבָּת". He realizes that teshuvah is not only possible but that Shabbos itself serves as a profound gift, providing this same opportunity to return to what truly matters. Just as teshuvah allows for personal renewal after sin, Shabbos offers us a weekly opportunity for reconnection. Adam recognizes that the essence of Shabbos extends beyond mere rest; it is a time to re-anchor ourselves in our values and what is truly significant. As Rabbi Kook beautifully articulates, Shabbos provides an opportunity to attain harmony between our inner and outer lives. The holiness and tranquility of Shabbos enrich our inner selves, creating a distinct state of being that contrasts sharply with the complexities and moral challenges of our weekday lives.

After a beautiful and uplifting Yomim Nora’im season we do not have to feel as if we are leaving it in the past. We can experience this feeling every single week when we take advantage of what Shabbos can offer us – the chance to connect, recharge and feel closeness with Hashem.